My college-aged son and I have been talking a lot about what it means to stay where our feet are. He reminded me how toxic it can be to always hope for the next great thing. This got me thinking about gratitude and appreciation on a deeper, more healing level. Our conversation made me stop and ask: What do I have right now in my life that was once the object of my desire?

You guys know that familiar phrase, “I’ll be happy when…” 

Our talks made me think about a few examples from my past:

“I’ll be happy when…

…I finish college.”

…I get pregnant.”

…this house gets finished.”

…I don’t have four kids in four different schools.”

…we pay off that loan.”

…I can leave this job and have my own business.”

…my husband isn’t traveling so much.”

…all the kids are out of diapers.”

A pattern I’ve noticed in my own life is that when I finally get to the end zone, I barely pause before planning the next play. What would happen to my overall mood if I stopped more often to reflect on all of the touchdowns I’ve already scored? Suddenly, things I’d moved on from—like starting my own business or getting to spend more time with G Man—become wins I can be grateful for any time I need a pick-me-up. And we can’t forget that at 16, almost 18, 20, and 22—all my kids are finally potty trained! No more diaper changing? Now that’s a touchdown worth celebrating.

So before I huddle up and stress about how to put more points on the board, I’m going to continue to try and remember that I’m not coming from behind—I’ve been scoring quietly for years. Whether we’re talking about tying shoes or graduating college, when I stop and soak in all of the amazing plays that I’ve witnessed in my life—it really does fill my heart with appreciation for what we’ve made it through…together. 

And, I’d love to hear about what you can continue to celebrate in your life. Maybe a job? Starting your own business? Getting through a health scare? Earning a degree? Making a big move? Please share with the team in the comment section below.

Next week, we’re going to be chatting about putting fresh eyes on consistent problems. And a reminder to get those finishing touches for your Halloween costumes! Until next time—thanks so much for listening, TeamConfessioners!